What is the most efficient method to handle time calculations for pricing in PHP?

When handling time calculations for pricing in PHP, the most efficient method is to use the DateTime class to manipulate dates and times. This class provides various methods for adding or subtracting time intervals, comparing dates, and formatting dates in different ways. By utilizing the DateTime class, you can accurately calculate time differences and apply pricing rules based on specific time intervals.

// Example code snippet using DateTime class for time calculations in pricing

// Define start and end time
$start = new DateTime('2022-01-01 08:00:00');
$end = new DateTime('2022-01-01 12:00:00');

// Calculate time difference
$interval = $start->diff($end);

// Get total hours
$totalHours = $interval->h + ($interval->days * 24);

// Calculate pricing based on total hours
$hourlyRate = 50; // Example hourly rate
$totalPrice = $totalHours * $hourlyRate;

echo "Total hours: " . $totalHours . "\n";
echo "Total price: $" . $totalPrice;